Slimming World's Transformation Tuesday: Eleanor's story after shedding six stone

When you've lost weight before and life gets in the way and old habits sneak back in, finding the strength and courage to return to your Slimming World group isn't always easy.

Eleanor, 63 retired palliative care nurse tells her story "I have been a target member before when I lost 8st in 15 months.

"That was 14 years ago. Life happened in between and unfortunately I gained a lot of the weight again but it's never too late to try again and I'm so happy I found Amanda's Slimming World group.

"I now fit back in all the clothes I bought when I was a previous target member. Some even look good."

Slimming World's Transformation Tuesday: Eleanor's story after shedding six stone

Eleanors Slimming World consultant Amanda asks her what it was that made her realise she wanted to return to group.

"I just wasn't happy with my health, how I looked and how I felt," shares Eleanor.

"I was in quite a lot of pain in my joints and didn't have the energy to keep up with my very active granddaughter."

If anyone is ever worried about attending group or returning to group Eleanor talks about what she loves.

"Everyone is so friendly, non judgemental and very encouraging," Eleanor says. "They are a great source of information with lots of recipe tips. It's great to see others succeeding. It spurs you on. Amanda is lovely and is so willing to help if you're having a wobble. I have made some lovely friends in group."

Knowing you are in a room of like minded people who are all on the same journey albeit individual brings comfort.

Eleanor having worked as a nurse for 41 years, who also enjoys crochet and knitting and attends a really friendly craft class in Ickleford every week talks about some of the changes she has made to help with her achieve her phenomenal six stone weight loss 

Slimming World's Transformation Tuesday: Eleanor's story after shedding six stone

Eleanor explains "At first it was very hard to have to cut down on my chocolate and wine consumption but knowing I can incorporate them into my healthy eating plan has really helped. I don't really miss them at all now as I have found so many other things that satisfy my sweet tooth. I love the variety of food you can have.

"I'm someone who loves my food but since joining I have eaten things that I would never have tried before ie curries. I also eat a much wider variety of fruit than before. I love chicken fajitas with lots of slimming World speed foods, onions, peppers, mushrooms and salad. I also enjoy hearty homemade soups using butter beans or lentils again with lots of other speed veg. If I need something sweet it's usually a raspberry or strawberry protein yoghurt with extra fruit."

When asked what would be her top tip to anyone who wanted to lose weight Eleanor replies "You have to do it for yourself not for anyone else.

"Once it's in your mindset just go for it. Pluck up the courage and take a step through the door of your local SW group and you won't regret it. And don't give up if you have a bad day. Let it go and concentrate on doing well for the rest of the week.

"What's the worst that can happen? Yes, you may have a gain but most people do. Don't let it send you off track."

Before Slimming World Eleanor was taking medication for high blood pressure and was also on more medication for rheumatoid arthritis - but now she is off antihypertensives altogether and have cut down the medication for rheumatoid arthritis.

Eleanor says: "I was also very shy and wouldn't push myself to do anything. I now enjoy singing with my local "Somewhere 2 Sing" choir.

"Through my choir, I have sung in Covent Garden piazza and recorded tracks at Abbey Road studios, something I wouldn't have had the confidence to do. I can keep up with my lovely granddaughter, who I love spending time with, although now sometimes she tells me I should go to "fatting world"!!!

"I would also never have been able to run 5k, couldn't even run for a bus. I'm now not too ashamed to go swimming. Before, I was too embarrassed about my size to wear in a swimming costume.

"I now love being able to wear different things and take much more interest in my appearance. Since losing weight I've recently been running 5k x3 a week and I'm happy to say that my time has improved although it still kills me."

Eleanor attends Amanda's Thursday morning Slimming World group at the Central Methodist Church Hall and says it has been amazing to watch Eleanor shrink in size but grow in confidence. 

Slimming World's Transformation Tuesday: Eleanor's story after shedding six stone